The secret to gambling is to find a game with low house advantage (BJ, Pass line craps or Baccarrat)and become an expert at it. I've been playing BJ for over 30 years but I always find the lowest minimum tables. I can sit there for hours having fun, drinking free drinks and maybe winning a little. How much does it cost me? I play 8-15 hours per day and almost never end up plus or minus more than $200 for 3 or 4 days trip. That includes all valet and cocktail waitress tips. And there is no question that I drink over $200 worth of free drinks in 4 days.